Falls Church City Public Schools Falls Church City Public Schools

NOTE: Audio of the first few minutes of the meeting was unavailable due to technical difficulties.

At the Falls Church School Board Work Session last night, the board focused on refining educational strategies and addressing budget concerns for the upcoming school year. Key discussions included enhancing class placement processes at the primary level to align with the International Baccalaureate (IB) standards and boosting teacher qualifications in Advanced Academics. Financially, the board tackled projections related to state revenue and budgetary adjustments necessary due to the General Assembly's pending decisions, emphasizing the importance of proactive financial planning to support educational excellence despite fiscal uncertainties.

The Falls Church School Board began its monthly meeting to honoring the children from our military-connected families (above).  FCCPS is on the path to becoming the third school division in Virginia to achieve the esteemed Purple Star Designation from the Virginia Department of Education. This prestigious award is given to schools that show an unwavering commitment to supporting military children as they navigate the challenges of transitioning between schools and managing the difficulties of deployment periods.

The Board also continued discussing Parents as Coaches and whether to limit participation by either policy or regulation. The Board has decided to continue the discussion and receiving public input.Resolutions recognizing April as the Month of the Military Child, Arab American History Month, Neurodiversity Acceptance Month, and School Library Month were also approved.

During its March Work Session last night, the Falls Church School Board received two presentations and answers to questions on the continuing topic of Parents as Coaches.


FCCPS Transportation Director Regina Anderson described efforts in managing and optimizing its 29-bus fleet, including daily operations, staff structure, and replacement strategies for its mix of diesel and electric buses. Anderson highlighted challenges in staffing, the strategic purchase versus lease-purchase considerations for new buses, and collaborations to enhance community service and operational efficiency.
FCCPS Food Services Director Richard Kane outlined his team's diverse and innovative approach to providing nutritious meals across five schools - more than 21,000 meals in January alone. He discussed compliance with USDA mandates, community inclusion, and sustainability initiatives. Kane also addressed operational challenges and opportunities for growth, including staffing and resource management, against a backdrop of significant achievements and recognitions.
The School Board continued discussions on "Parents as Coaches" within FCCPS and received answers to previously submitted questions. The School Board is reviewing various aspects of parental involvement in coaching, the selection process for athletic teams, recruiting and hiring coaches, and measures to ensure fairness and prevent nepotism.

In its March Regular Meeting, the Falls Church School Board unanimously approved its "Advertised Budget" for the fiscal year 2025.  It includes reductions in health expenditures and the addition of an Elementary Reading Specialist. The budget also maintains its commitment to competitive compensation for FCCPS staff, with a proposed Step increase for all eligible employees and a 3.5% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), translating to an average pay increase of 6%. The budget is now submitted to the City Manager for inclusion in the General Government's Proposed Budget to be presented to the City Council in April.
The School Board also approved two landmark Collective Bargaining Agreements with the Falls Church City Education Association (FCCEA), representing both certified and non-certified Falls Church City Public Schools (FCCPS) employees. The agreements encompass a range of topics, including salaries, benefits, and some working conditions, ensuring that our employees are supported and providing for the continuation of PEAC and SEAC and the creation of a labor-management committee.

Falls Church School Board Advances Inclusivity and Budget Planning

At the Falls Church School Board meeting, FCCPS Secondary Campus Associate Principals, Counselors, and other team members delivered a compelling presentation on the "Creating Welcoming and Courageous Spaces" initiative, which is dedicated to enhancing inclusivity and resilience among students. The initiative, driven by the vision of leveraging education for a more harmonious world, encompasses a range of actions and programs designed to tackle discrimination and foster a sense of community. Key initiatives include the establishment of a committee for the creation of educational content, discussions aimed at addressing racial incidents, and the integration of lessons focusing on setting expectations, establishing norms, and empowering students.  Additionally, the board engaged in a debate regarding the involvement of parents as athletic coaches. It concluded its third FY 24-25 Budget Work Session, addressing pertinent budgetary queries.

This Falls Church School Board meeting was marked by a festive atmosphere, as February has been designated as School Board Appreciation Month and the current week as School Board Clerk Appreciation Week. In a heartfelt display of gratitude, each school in the district crafted a video tribute to honor the school board's efforts. Additionally, Clerk Marty Gadell received a special proclamation in recognition of her dedicated service to the board.  The board unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month and this year's theme of African Americans and the Arts. A highlight of the meeting was the FCCPS Spotlight segment, which showcased the impactful GIVE Day of Service held at the Secondary Campus. On this day, approximately 300 students transformed their day off into a "day on" by assembling protein meal packages for Ukraine and local food banks, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to community service and international aid.